Training and Relocation of Mexican Americans: Implications for Manpower Policy.

Kleibrink, Michael C.; Ruesink, David C.

The problem of moving workers from one community to another is not a new topic, but it is a little studied one. Much research has been done on the demographic characteristics of migrants, but there are very few studies of the sociopsychological characteristics of migration. In this study, the importance placed by the relocated individual on various kinds of opportunity structures is analyzed along with the changing perceived social status in the sending and receiving communities. The data from 140 relocatees are presented in a post-factum analysis but reveal that opportunity structures that avoid social impediments to raising status are more important to this group than those removing economic barriers. Furthermore, most of those who stayed on their new jobs and most of those who left felt that they were better off in the receiving community. The authors use these data to develop a model for policy use and further research. Related documents are ED 032 157 and ED 042 556. (Author/BO)